This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Ford dealer.
6.4
fairly significantTypical Repair Cost:
$440.00
Average Mileage:
70,576 miles
Total Complaints:
569 complaints
Most common solutions:
- waiting for Ford to recall (242 reports)
- not sure (172 reports)
- replace panel (81 reports)
- possible class action lawsuit (26 reports)
- call Ford motor company 1-800-241-3673 (21 reports)
- do not buy Ford again (14 reports)
body / paint problem
Search for Problems, Recalls & Defects
Find a good Ford mechanic
A free service from MechanicAdvisor.comHelpful websites
- 2004 Ford Explorer Lift Gate Applique - You can purchase the rear panel applique to fix this problem from fordpartswebsite.com, although it will still need to be painted and installed.
- Cracked Ford Explores - Visit and join this Facebook group for an additional site where you can tell Ford about this annoying problem.
2011Nov 03
Explorer ES 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 77,000 miles
I went to open the back to load groceries and the panel was cracked. I have noticed so many Ford Explorers with cracks. Whenever it rains for some reason my door ajar light stays on and my interior and exterior light under my rear view mirror stays on? I think this should be a recall. I loved my explorer but thinking of selling and never getting another ford product.
2012Feb 13
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 66,000 miles
Noticed the crack to the right of the Ford emblem the other day. My friend had an 02 Explorer with the same problem and told me it is very common.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2012Feb 25
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 73,200 miles
I didn't realize the issue of the panel under the rear window cracking was so prevalent until I did a search on it.. I noticed mine cracked sometime within the last month. I bought my Explorer used five years ago with only 42000 miles on it. Now I only have 73000 so you can see it gets driven infrequently. It has been garaged the whole time I've had it so it hasn't been out in the elements.. Obviously this is a construction (design or material) flaw and should be addressed by Ford.
2012Jan 04
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 82,000 miles
Have had my 2004 Ford Explorer since 2004- purchased new. Crack appeared out of the blue a couple months ago. Ever since it appeared I've noticed it on numerous other Ford Explorers- many times on a daily basis. It has gotten to the point where whenever I see one of them I check to see if there is a crack. Most of the time there is one- typically see at least 1 other car w/ the crack on a daily basis and I only drive about 10 miles during my work commute. Not all that shocked to see the numerous posts on this website about the same problem. Have been a loyal Ford customer all my life-- My dad is a Ford retiree- worked there 30 years. Probably won't buy one again if the company doesn't man-up, do the right thing, and fix this problem free of charge. So far it's not looking good.
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2012Feb 24
Explorer XLS 6.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 71,062 miles
If all of the Explorers i have been seeing fo so long have the same problem why don't they fix it?????????
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2012Jan 10
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 248,000 miles
Since this crack appeared, we have noticed similar cracks on over a dozen other Ford Explorers. The majority of the cracks are to the LEFT of the emblem. I cannot believe that Ford has not taken some sort of responsibility for this obvious defect in the construction of the panel.
2012Feb 10
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 123,000 miles
LIke so many other posts regarding this problem, we have the same crack on our tailgate near the Ford emblem. We parked next to an identical model with the exact same crack and had a conversation with the owner, who told us she discovered this is a common flaw with this model. Now I'm seeing similar cracks on other Ford Explorers when we are out and about. How can Ford not take responsibility for this? When we called the dealership to find out about having it fixed, they told us it would be at our expense and over $500 to fix it. REALLY??? We have meticulously maintained our vehicle, and now it looks awful! This is just wrong Ford!
2012Feb 01
Explorer XLT 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 78,000 miles
I wrote Ford Motor Credit and spoke with them today. I was told this was not a known problem on this model and it was not under warranty at this time. I explained it is a known manufacture defect on this year and model have been told by 2 dealerships and insurance company and they will not offer any assistance in getting this corrected. The truck was well under warranty when the defect was recognized. I want them to stand behind the product and fix it!!
2012Mar 03
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 186,000 miles
Well just like some other complaints i had seen 2 blue explorers with a crack in hatch and the next day i had the same thing ironic that thaey were the same color blue , not many major issues other than tran replaced at 185,000 but just weird .
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2007Oct 03
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
I add mine to the # 1 complaint of this vehicle. The part is defective and should be recalled and fixed at no charge to the valued Ford customer.
2005Feb 13
Explorer XLT
- Automatic transmission
- 100,000 miles
The crack in the rear below the rear back window.. It's definitely a defect!! I love my ford by I hate how the crack makes the car look.
I cannot believe there is no recall.
I am in Ford country.. Florida. Where ever I turn I see another ford explorer with a crack!! Some try to cover with an awful sticker and other tried to paint it!!
Obviously they don't like either. This is my first Ford.. But I may have to purchase my next car back to Nissan.. Never had a problem.. Ford why not Stand by your name and mission ...
2012Jan 20
Explorer Eddie Bauer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 81,124 miles
Had heard from other owners about the cracking of real window panel. After several years (7) ours has finally cracked. Was wondering about Ford repairing as defect or the cost to have repaired.
2012Feb 25
Explorer XL V6
- Automatic transmission
- 126,000 miles
Last week I was behind an Explorer just like mine and noticed the crack below the rear window. I had loaded somethings in the back on Friday night and it wasn't there. When I loaded the things back nup on Saturday morning I found that mine had cracked too. I came online to see if there is a recall and I find all the complaints from other Ford Owners about the same problem. How can Ford not do anything to fix this. If I get it fixed myself, I wonder how long before it does it again. Please let me know if anyone gets any solutions to this problem.. I'm also having transmission problems too! I WILL NOT purchase another FORD! I waited for years to get an Explorer always wanted one and now I wish I had never bought it!!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2011Jan 01
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 65,000 miles
click to see larger images
I became aware that Ford Explorers were susceptible to cracking of the rear trim panel below the window from observations of other Ford Explorers while driving. I warned every driver of the car to be very careful closing the back lift gate and back window hatch, yet one day a crack was there. As time has gone on, the crack has grown and new cracks have appeared.
My biggest concern is the resale value of the car being compromised. I had initially chosen to purchase a Ford (used with low mileage) because they didn't take government bailout money. But now with this crack issue I've lost a great deal of respect for the company. I used to hate the bulk and rattle of the Dodge Ram pickup trucks, but now am actually considering changing my plans to purchase a Ford truck with the Dodge truck. I'll do a better job of investigating complaints before I buy any car or truck from this point forward; right here at Car Complaints dot com.
2011Dec 26
Explorer LXT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 66,600 miles
I also have other problems that Ford fixed and then the exact same thing happened (not fixed yet) and now the rear panel cracks in half. I have owned a lot of Fords, and had problems, but they were so small that i did not even know they were there until i got a recall letter. Now i am having bigger problems,and i find out i am not alone by far, and i can't get Ford to give even a good answer. I get answers like , if it is a real problem, there will be a recall. I am now waiting for Ford to do the right thing and recall and fix all these problems.
2012Jan 01
Explorer 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 103,000 miles
I just don't understand how the rear of your vehicle can have a crack in the center of it!!!
it's horrible; I'm worried about it cracking and as the summer months come it will get worst.
2012Feb 01
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 88,000 miles
Vehicle is a piece of CRAP. Already had to have front pinion seal and coolant housing replaced due to blown head gasket. Within 6 months after these repairs the alternator went. A month and a half ago, the tensioner broke. Extended warranty is highway robbery unless you purchase everything meaning very little above was covered. Now the panel on the lift gate below the rear window is cracked all the way down the middle. Tried to buy American, but what a JOKE. My 2004 Toyota Highlander has 105,000 miles and I have not had any of these repairs except the normal maintenance done at their respective intervals. Will never buy another Ford.
2012Feb 15
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.8L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 82,800 miles
A couple of years ago the hinges on the rear window broke, and now this; not to mention the two wheel bearings that had to be replaced. Considering the initial cash outlay I paid, along with the on-going expenses, I'll think twice before buying another Ford.
2007Nov 12
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 42,000 miles
when i called ford customer service to see if they could help me they said no. now i find out there at that time there was a special assistance program. called them back today to see if i could get my money back they said no they never heard of any program. they just don't want to help because so many cars have this problem and would cost them to must money to help!
2011Dec 02
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 94,000 miles
When I first noticed this crack I showed it to my Ford Dealer to see what they had to say. Their reply was yes we have seen this before so it is not uncommon. So if this is the situation and obviously a design defect then why doesn't Ford step up to the plate and put out a recall?? Then just for fun I called different Ford dealers to see if they had the part in stock. Yes they did so that tells me if they are going to keep the part in stock that it definitely is a PROBLEM. I have been treated well by our local dealership but I feel their hands are tied in fixing this problem without any cost to me. My problem is with FORD Motor Co. They need to remember that the best and worst advertising you can get is word of mouth. Personally, unless Ford fixes this I won't buy another Ford product.
2011Dec 19
Explorer XLT 4.3L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 55,800 miles
Called Ford and "at this time their are no recalls for your vehicle" but I heard that its common. All I have to do is wait and see what course of action Ford takes with this issue. Buy American, lets boost the economy guys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2012Jan 12
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 79,200 miles
Back lift window cracked through frame. I see why Ford changed this in later models back to the glass lift again. I think they should stand good for this. I see the average cost if we have it fixed is $400 plus dollars. I have spent enough on wheel bearings and oil leaks already and do not want to spend anymore.
2011Oct 01
Explorer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
FORD ? REALLY ?? I have spent only a few minutes on the internet and found MANY complaints about this issue and Ford is telling people it isn't an "issue". Since my "CRACK" reared its' ugly head I have noticed almost every 2002 - 2005 Explorer with the dreaded "CRACK" and all I am reading is Ford will do nothing about it. I have joined the Facebook page dedicated to the "CRACK" and intend to be as vocal as I can. I am looking for information on how to join the class action suit. Maybe HBO can film a special....."Cracked in America".
2010Jul 04
Explorer ES V6
- Automatic transmission
- 68,500 miles
At first I thought that I did something. Then i started noticing other cars and when ever I seen another car I immediately look at the back panel and sure enough it is cracked under the glass-
It is very annoying knowing that this problem exist and that no one from ford has acknowledged any of the complaints-I will now call ford and report the issue-I will in fact let everyone who i see with the same problem know to call ford.
i would like the problem fixed-this is my only car and would like to keep it-
2010Sep 01
Explorer Eddie Bauer
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
Back panel cracked and is ugly and looks tacky. Don't know what the complications for leakage into the back door may be. Nice car on the outside except for that. I see the same problem on Explorers all over in just our own town, so there are a lot more of them out there that 543.
2010Feb 24
Explorer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 45,000 miles
If the ford company want fix a crack in the plastic panel under the rear window or recall the on going problem. They must not be concerned about selling any of there explorers in the future. If they want fix a crack that goes through their ford name then that tells me what kind of service they have or warranty on standing behind there product. why buy a ford if they want fix the problems.Just go buy a Chevrolet you will get better service and less problems. Its awful that ford company lets a simple fix or recall ruin their business. I just wanted to let everyone know about how ford stands behind their product and warranty.
2011Dec 21
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 103,000 miles
click to see larger images
We had a mild cold spell and the crack appeared. A few days after doing some on-line research I saw this was a common problem. I spoke to a lady with a 2005 Eddie Bauer, with the same problem. I guess when the Ford Design Engineers were in Materials class, they missed the section on coefficients of expansion.
2011Nov 11
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 104,000 miles
click to see larger images
I bought the suv used about a month ago and didn't even notice the crack. I am one of the lucky ones...I guess I would say. The spot where mine is cracked is directly in the middle of the Ford symbol and perfectly straight. I was informed the Explorer had been in a former wreck when I bought it, and everything had been repaired,so it looked like a spot where something was just repaired, and I was satisfied with it. My dad actually noticed other explorers on the road with similar cracks around or in the same spot. I think Ford should recall the part that is below the window. It would bother me more if I knew I would be keeping the car longer than about a year, but I just needed the suv for the back seat space for carseats for the kids I babysit.
2012Jan 19
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 117,525 miles
I NOTICE A CRACK IN THE REAR PANEL ONE DAY WIHCH WAS NOT THERE THE DAY BEFORE. I DID NOT OPERATE THE REAR DOOR DURING THAT TIME THAT WOULD CAUSE THIS CRACK, NOR DID I HIT ANY THING OR WAS HIT.
2011Oct 22
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 104,000 miles
Happened after a cold snap. Seems to be a common problem that Ford will not fix. Looks like there is a class action lawsuit against Ford filed 12/22/2010 in CA.
2012Jan 14
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 130,000 miles
seriously - this is the 2nd problem I've had with the rear hatch. my 3rd and final explorer
2010Apr 07
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 49,000 miles
Will Ford cover this problem? It seems many people have the same exact problem with the same make and model.
2011Oct 22
Explorer XLT Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
Thought it was just mine but obviously this is a common problem and Ford needs to do a recall!!
2011Feb 13
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 85,200 miles
Every single Ford Explorer of this body style that I see on the road (including mine) has this problem. Every. Single. One.
2010Jun 11
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 70,789 miles
I have contacted. FORD and was told that there isn't a recall on this problem. I have noticed numerous models with the same problem. Obviously there is a defect on these models. Any help would be helpful.
2011Aug 20
Explorer Eddie Bauer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
So like a week before my panel cracked I was talking about how I see all these explorers with cracked rear panels and was so happy mine had not done it. Then while washing my car in the hot Texas sun it Cracked. :(
2010Aug 14
Explorer Eddie Bauer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
I'm very irritated.. since I bought this car nothing but problems from the windows sticking to transmission problems and cracked ac line.. now this crack on the hatch.. very expensive car and it keeps sucking the money out of you after the warranty is out... big hassle!
2010Jun 08
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 70,684 miles
Went to ford dealer and was told nothing could be done because warranty was over.
2011Jun 11
Explorer Limited 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
Was backing the boat into the lake when I noticed the rear panel was completely cracked just to the left of the ford emblem. It had happened in the middle of the night. My only wish was that it would have broken the ford emblem off. I am embarrassed that I own a ford. The good thing is I am completely cured of ever owning a ford again.
- Kevin
2011Jun 11
Explorer Limited 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
Was backing the boat into the lake and noticed a large ugly crack below the rear glass running just left of the ford emblem that magically appeared over night. My only wish is that it would have broke the emblem off. I am embarrassed that I own a ford. The good news is that it cured me from ever buying a ford again.
- Kevin
2010Mar 01
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 181,300 miles
When I am driving (which is a lot), I notice that 1 of out 3 Ford Explorers have a cracked rear panel. Not only is this a product defect but I plan to never buy another Ford because obviously the materials are basically to cheap to withstand wear and tear.
2011Apr 10
Explorer 3.2lV6
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
Ford knows this was a defect, is there a class action law suit?
2011Nov 17
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 65,987 miles
This is crap my beautiful explorer now has a ridiculous crack right by the emblem in the back. What is the most annoying part of this is that the crack just magically appeared over night and had me thinking that i backed into something until i found all these complaints about it. Shame on you ford, you suck.
2011Dec 11
Explorer XLT
- Automatic transmission
- 55,820 miles
At first I thought it was the rear windshield wiper that might have shattered, because I noticed this at night, but my husband looked during the day and much to our surprise it was a deep crack along side of the emblem from the window to the bottom of the window hatch. After reading all the people who had the same problem I really do think and encourage FORD to get off their asses and do something.
2008Jun 01
Explorer LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
I live in Wichita falls Texas. When I drive down the road I see other ford explorers with the exact same crack!! Every time I see this it really aggravates me. I know this had to occur in explorers all over America. I don't believe it is exclusive to Wichita falls. I can't believe that Ford is unaware of this issue. Ford needs to fix these cracked rear panels!!!
2011Nov 15
Explorer EXT
- Automatic transmission
- 43,000 miles
Just one of many explorer owners with this problem.
2011Sep 19
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 62,059 miles
Just woke up this morning and seen crack beside emblem on rear pop up window all the way through! This is my 3rd Explorer and I'm really pissed! Obviously Ford won't do anything!
2011Mar 09
Explorer Eddie Bauer
- Automatic transmission
- 64,000 miles
Quality is JOB 1 ??????? The panel below the window on the back hatch split in two! Did they not know that it would be open & shut and needed to be designed to take it ? It was purely shoddy product!
2009Aug 12
Explorer Limited 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 41,000 miles
Just about every Ford Explorer in model years 02-04 seem to have this issue. I see one or two Explorers every day around town that have this crack. Seems that Ford should at least come up with a solution to have it repaired...not like I'm just going to buy another piece that'll just do the exact same thing.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Sep 01
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
Another thing Ford should pay for because of shoddy design.
Johnny T.
Moore, OK, USA
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